'Mwezi wa Baba': KMPDU welcomes Mombasa’s free healthcare initiative in honour of Raila

The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has welcomed Mombasa County’s free healthcare initiative launched in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

The initiative, dubbed ‘Mwezi wa Baba,’ is part of activities marking the first anniversary of Raila’s death on October 15, 2025, and celebrating his longstanding advocacy for Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah, in a statement issued following an engagement with Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sharif Nassir alongside the union’s Coast Branch leadership, said the initiative reflected Raila’s vision of ensuring access to healthcare for all Kenyans.

He also welcomed the Governor’s commitment to promote the remaining 17 medical consultants by Monday next week, as well as transition healthcare workers engaged on contract during the free healthcare month to permanent and pensionable terms.

“These are important commitments, and we look forward to seeing them translated into action,” Dr. Atellah said.

The KMPDU boss said discussions with the county leadership focused on the welfare of healthcare workers, working conditions and professional growth, noting that the quality of healthcare services depended on how medical practitioners were treated.

“Behind every patient who receives care is a healthcare worker who deserves to work in a safe, supportive environment, be treated fairly, and have the opportunity to grow professionally,” he said.

“We cannot talk about quality healthcare without also talking about the people who make it possible.”

Dr. Atellah reiterated the union’s position that strengthening the healthcare system required investment in the welfare and professional development of medical workers.

“As a Union, we remain firm in our belief that a strong healthcare system begins with taking care of its people. When healthcare workers are supported, respected, and given the conditions they need to serve, patients and communities benefit too,” he added.

Raila died on October 15, 2025, with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party dedicating October 2026 to commemorating his legacy through activities held under the ‘Mwezi wa Baba’ initiative.